The winter months aren’t kind to your home. Heavy snow, harsh ice, strong winds and bitter temperatures can be particularly rough, cosmetically and structurally.
Of all the parts of your home that are regularly exposed to the elements, your deck is one of the most vulnerable. It’s not just about the deck staining or paint fading over time — cold weather can worsen existing problems, wood rot can crop up if the water protection wears off, and in extreme cases, the beams can warp.
Warmer months are here, and if you’re anything like us, you’re itching to spend longer hours outside enjoying nice, breezy weather. The deck, of course, is the perfect place to host a party, eat dinner, or just relax and read a favorite book.
But before you head out, it pays to take a closer look at your deck. If it’s not quite ready for its summer debut, read on to find out what your options are for a “facelift” and to learn about other deck repair services you may need during a regular deck check.
What’s the difference between deck staining, painting and sealing?
Deck staining is the ideal solution if you want a little bit of color but still want to showcase the wood’s natural beauty. Stains range from blonde to black, with every shade of brown in between. Many stains have water-repellant properties built right into the solution. The result is a beautifully-colored patio, with all the gorgeous knots in the wood shining through. Deck staining lasts for about two to three years, depending on use and weather conditions.
Deck painting is another common option for homeowners looking to breathe new life into an old deck. Like deck stains, many deck paints are specially formulated to address common wooden deck problems, such as waterproofing and slip resistance. Deck painting has a long life – up to 10 years – but the paint tends to peel, requiring more regular patio maintenance than deck staining.
Deck sealing is purely a waterproofing deck treatment, perfect for homeowners who want to maintain the wood’s natural look or for decks built of composite wood. Don’t know if it’s time to reseal? Try the water test: sprinkle a little bit of water onto the deck. The water will bead up right away on properly-sealed planks. If it soaks in immediately, the deck needs to be resealed.
The “done deck” summer prep checklist
Once you’ve settled on the treatment your deck needs, it’s time to find a home maintenance service that will go above and beyond just deck staining, painting or sealing. The right people will conduct a full-service inspection of your entire deck.
Some of those additional deck repair services include:
- A thorough inspection of deck construction. A proper check looks for loose floorboards, damaged wood, raised nails, secure railings and any potentially unsafe . If left unaddressed, a deck can become a safety hazard and possibly lead to a collapse.
- Looking for any signs of water damage or stains. When water seeps into untreated wood, it could encourage wood rot or warping. (Contrary to popular belief, the cold weather doesn’t stop wood rot; it just slows down its progression.) Couple a deck full of snow with some untreated wood, and you may be in need of some wood rot repair.
At HomeSquare, we want to make sure that the job is done right the first time. We also want to make sure any problems bubbling under the surface are caught in time. We can clean your grill and set up your patio furniture for you while we’re there!
Proper preparation and thorough understanding of your deck’s condition go a long way in prepping for endless summer fun. So go out and enjoy the sunshine, BBQs and warm memories – just be sure your deck is prepped to handle all the excitement first!